When to Visit Murchison Falls National Park

When to Visit Murchison Falls National Park

When to Visit Murchison Falls National Park. Wild Planet recommends visiting Murchison Falls National Park year-round, but we find that December to February offers the very best conditions. June to September also provides an excellent travel window.

During these dry months, rainfall remains low, so wildlife tracks stay accessible and game drives run smoothly. Animals gather around water sources, making sightings easier and more rewarding.

When Is the Dry Season?

The dry season runs from December to February and again from June to September. Expect abundant sunshine and minimal rain.

Because the park sits near the equator, temperatures stay warm throughout the year. Daytime temperatures range from 25–32°C, while evenings cool to around 18°C. January and February can feel particularly hot, so Wild Planet advises guests to pack light clothing, drink plenty of water, and apply sun cream regularly.

When Is the Wet Season?

The wet season falls between March and May and again from July to November. During this time, the landscape turns lush and vibrant.

Although Murchison lies in one of Uganda’s drier regions, rain can make surrounding roads more difficult to navigate. Wildlife remains present, but animals often seek shelter during heavier rainfall.

If you plan to go chimpanzee trekking, prepare for muddy and slippery terrain by wearing sturdy boots. Rainfall tends to peak in April, May, and August through October.

High and Low Season

High Season (June to September):
Wild Planet sees the highest number of visitors during this period due to dry weather and cooler temperatures. Gorilla trekking demand across Uganda also increases at this time. Accommodation fills quickly—especially in June and July—so we recommend booking your lodge several months in advance.

Low Season (March to May, October to November):
Although heavy rain is uncommon within Murchison itself, some surrounding lodges may close temporarily. However, this season offers greater lodge availability and the possibility of last-minute bookings.

What’s the Best Time to See Wildlife?

Wild Planet recommends December to February for the best overall wildlife viewing.

• Chimpanzee trekking: October to January offers excellent conditions, as grass remains short and fruit begins to ripen.
• Birdwatching: Visit during the wet season, particularly in March, to spot some of the park’s 451 bird species.

Attractions in Murchison Falls National Park with Wild Planet

Chimp Trekking & Habituation Experience

More than 600 chimpanzees inhabit the mahogany-lined forests of Murchison. Civil wars during the 1970s and 80s drastically reduced their numbers due to poaching and smuggling. In 1995, researcher Vernon Reynolds launched a conservation project with support from Jane Goodall Institute. Conservation efforts rebuilt the population, and today Murchison ranks as Uganda’s second-best chimp trekking destination after Kibale Forest National Park.

Standard Chimp Trekking

You will meet your guide at 7:00 am for a safety briefing before entering the forest. Treks typically last around three hours, though tracking time may vary. Once you locate the chimps, you will spend one hour observing their natural behaviors.

Habituation Experience

You will meet your guide at 6:00 am and set out to find the chimps while they sleep in their nests. Throughout the day, you will observe feeding, playing, patrolling, and nesting behaviors. This immersive experience provides deeper insight into chimpanzee life.

At the time of writing:

• Trekking permit: $85
• Habituation permit: $220

Hiking & Trekking

Wild Planet offers guided hikes to the top of Murchison Falls and nature walks through Kaniyo Pabidi and Rabongo forests. Visitors must remain on designated trails.

Top of the Falls Hike

This adventure begins with a boat ride to Baker’s Point, named after British explorer Sir Samuel Baker. The guided hike lasts approximately 45 minutes. As you walk through rolling hills and bird-filled landscapes, the thunder of the falls grows louder.

At the summit, you will witness the Nile force its way through a narrow 7-metre gorge before plunging 43 metres into the pool below—a truly dramatic spectacle.

Forest Walks

Explore Kaniyo Pabidi and Rabongo forests to encounter chimpanzees, olive baboons, black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and blue monkeys.

Boat Cruises

Wild Planet offers two unforgettable boat cruises along the Nile.

Albert Delta Cruise

Departing from Paraa, this 28 km cruise heads downstream toward Lake Albert and lasts 4–5 hours. Morning departures provide the best birdwatching opportunities, including sightings of the rare shoebill stork. Afternoon cruises deliver stunning sunset views over the grasslands.

Launch Trip to the Falls

This 3-hour cruise travels upstream toward Murchison Falls. As you approach the narrow gorge, you will feel the mist rising from the crashing water. Along the way, you may see hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife along the riverbanks.

Both cruises offer exceptional opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

Plan your journey to Murchison Falls National Park with confidence. Wild Planet will help you choose the perfect travel season, secure permits, and design a safari experience tailored to your interests. Contact Wild Planet today to start planning your unforgettable Uganda adventure